'Algunos' vs. 'Unos'

Algunos(as) and unos(as) are indefinites that tend to be used interchangeably, and most of the time this is correct. However, it is important to know that they are also used differently in some contexts. In this article, let's review the three main differences that will help you distinguish when to use them.

When Talking About Approximations

Rule 1. One of the main differences is that unos and unas are used with numbers and approximations. In this case, its English translation, for example, would not be "some" but "about." In this case, it can be used as follows:

Hay + unos, unas + number

Rule 2. It is also common to find unos/unas with verbs related to money or numbers, such as ganar, comprar, perder, apostar, etc.

When Followed by the Preposition De

Rule 3. If the word that follows is the preposition de, the correct collocation is with algunos or algunas.

As an Intensifier

Rule 4. When you want to emphasize a characteristic in informal language, you use unos or unas. In this case, it would translate more as such a.